1.  What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare and specialise in Nephrology - the medical field for kidneys?

It has always been my aspiration to pursue a career that allows me to help others. During my secondary school years, I volunteered with St. John’s Ambulance Brigade, and that experience strengthened my interest in healthcare and serving those in need.

Although nursing was not my first choice initially, enrolling in NYP’s nursing programme became a turning point in my life. As I progressed through my training and early years in practice, I came to appreciate how meaningful and impactful the nursing profession truly is.

Later, my decision to specialise in Nephrology was deeply influenced by a personal experience. While accompanying my late grandfather for his dialysis treatments, I gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by patients living with chronic kidney disease.

This experience motivated me to focus my career on supporting this patient group. When I later progressed into the role of Renal Coordinator, I found the work especially meaningful, as it allowed me to guide patients through their care journey and support them as the disease progresses through education, planning, and coordinated care.

2.  What were some of the biggest challenges in your career journey, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I encountered was the lack of a clear and structured career pathway for the Renal Coordinators. The role did not fit within the traditional nursing framework, which made professional development and progression unclear.

Recognising this gap, I worked closely with colleagues and leadership to advocate for a proper development and recognition framework. Together, we pioneered the Renal Coordinator role within SGH’s renal medicine department. A significant milestone was achieved in 2021, when Renal Coordinators were officially recognised as Allied Health Professionals within the SingHealth cluster. Today, there are close to 40 Renal Coordinators across public healthcare institutions, and I am very proud of what we have collectively built.

Lydia’s Career Journey:

NYP Student à Staff Nurse à Renal Coordinator à Senior Renal Coordinator à Programme Manager à Senior Programme Manager à Assistant Director à Senior Assistant Director

3.   As a leader today, what qualities do you value most in your team?

As a leader, I’ve found that team members who embody commitment and a strong learning spirit truly shine. When we’re open to learning and growing, we build confidence and competence, and that’s when we can deliver our best care to patients.

I prioritise supporting and mentoring team members who demonstrate a passion for learning and self-development. I strive to foster an environment that encourages growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement, where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

4.  What advice would you give to students who are considering a career in healthcare or nursing?

For students who are considering a career in healthcare or nursing, my advice is simple and sincere: if you want to make a difference in people’s lives, nursing is a truly meaningful and rewarding career. It allows you to impact not only patients, but also their families, in ways that are real, lasting, and deeply fulfilling.